Emery O. Smith

Emery O. Smith, 92, of Benton Harbor passed away Sept. 16, 2025, at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time. Those wishing to leave an online message for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.

Emery was born Feb. 23, 1933, in Dowagiac to Onam Smith and Rose Sink. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and over the years, worked for Modar Inc., Kaywood, Shepherd Caster Corp. and delivered parts for Carquest. In the late '80s, he started Smith Manufacturing with his family, where his son and grandson continue the business still today. As a teenager and young adult, Emery had a love for cars, hunting and fishing. Emery continued being an avid outdoorsman, continuing to enjoy fishing and working in his yard.

Emery is survived by his children: Rita Klann, Robin Smith, Theresa R. Smith and Scott (Theresa K.) Smith; son-in-law, Bob Hayes; and grandchildren: Robert (Kerri) Hayes Jr., Derrick (Stacy) Hayes, Joe (Jenni) Hayes, Ryan (Kendyl) Smith, Zachary (Avery) Smith and Kaleb (Kassidy) Smith. Also surviving are his great-grandchildren: Paeton, Kaia, Quin, Aaron, Devan, Corbin, Hunter, Dylan, Savannah and Wilton; and great-great-grandson, Roman.

In addition to his parents, Emery was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn, in 2016 and his daughter, Charmaine Hayes, in 2012.